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Current research shows that alternative approaches to health and wellness are gaining in popularity around the globe. As an industry, holistic medicine is projected to expand at through 2030. Experts say that several factors have contributed to its growth. Among them are an increasing number of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses, a growing recognition of the benefits of alternative practices, and the development of a collaborative care model that integrates modern medicine with traditional, natural approaches.

Naturally, these changes have increased the demand for holistic healthcare professionals of all kinds. If your interest lies in alternative medicine, you can consider careers in acupuncture and traditional oriental medicine, massage therapy, herbal medicine, holistic nutrition, chiropractic care, and many other options.

Today, students can find alternative medical degree programs at all levels, from associate degrees to doctorates. Holistic medicine degrees are also available online for those who'd prefer to earn their degree through distance education. 

An online holistic medicine degree (also called by other titles like an integrative health degree, a holistic wellness degree, and many more) teaches students to promote health and wellness through natural methods like plant-based remedies, diet changes, meditation, and exercise. Students also explore cognitive behavioral therapy and talk therapy, both of which are in increasing demand as patients seek alternatives to prescription medications. 

Want to find the most cost effective options for a degree in the healthcare field? Review our lists of the most affordable bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration, most affordable master's degrees in healthcare management, and most affordable master's degrees in nutrition.

At the bachelor's level, students can choose among several types of alternative medicine degrees that emphasize natural treatment options. Although each program has its own slant, they all focus on enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through historic traditions combined with modern science. Online bachelor's degrees in holistic medicine are ideal for aspiring practitioners, and they may also help working healthcare professionals expand their career options or learn new treatments that can be added to their current practice. 

Common classes for holistic health degrees include Aromatherapy Science, Botany & Plant Identification, Homeopathy, Holistic Nutrition, and Anatomy and Physiology. Some programs are specifically designed to prepare students to go on to graduate studies in naturopathy, integrative medicine, or other specialties.

These programs generally take students four to five years to complete, with total credit hour requirements ranging from 120-124. Some programs require students to complete a capstone project or accumulate a certain number of hours of hands-on experience to graduate.

In terms of admission requirements, first-year students need to have a high school diploma or GED. Students who are continuing from an associate degree program will need to provide college transcripts from any postsecondary schools attended previously.

If you want to really dive into the details, check out our latest magazine article about whether a bachelor's in holistic medicine is worth it.

For entry-level positions within the field, future professionals can seek an online associate degree. Programs are available in specialties such as herbal medicine, aromatherapy, energy healing, and massage therapy. Coursework varies but may include the study of plants and botanicals as well as anatomy. Graduates may be required to obtain a state license before going into practice.

An associate program is usually made up of 60 credit hours, and students can finish in about two years. Program applicants may be asked to submit high school transcripts along with their application forms.  

In the field of holistic medicine, students can opt for one of several different master's degree programs. For example, a master's in integrative medicine trains healthcare professionals to incorporate many types of therapies in helping their patients achieve optimal health and wellness. Master's in holistic nutrition programs teach dietitians and nutritionists to use a holistic approach to eating by focusing on the mind-body-spirit connection. Master's programs in energetic and spiritual healing often draw upon ancient Ayurvedic and oriental medicine practices, such as acupuncture and acupressure, to restore a patient's well-being.

Holistic medicine master's programs usually require 30-36 credit hours and take students approximately two years to complete.

Applicants who are interested in earning a holistic medicine master's degree must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited program. They also need to submit college transcripts, and many programs ask applicants to provide professional letters of recommendation outlining their professional accomplishments and attributes.

Aspiring naturopathic physicians need to earn a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine before entering into practice. Students enrolled in an online doctoral program will learn to combine natural resources with modern science to provide patients with holistic diagnosis and treatment.

The typical online naturopathic doctoral degree program takes participants five to seven years to complete. Key courses in doctoral-level online naturopathic medicine programs include Clinical Biochemistry, Functional Medicine, Botanicals and Nature Cure, Naturopathic Women's Health, Elemental Chemistry, and Aromatherapy. Students are also required to participate in a clinical externship and a dissertation.

To be admitted, students must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in holistic medicine or a similar field. Prerequisite courses usually include Biology and General Chemistry. Some programs may require previous work experience.

Holistic medical practitioners who want to expand their knowledge in a particular subject should consider earning a graduate certificate. Some options include Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Aromatherapy Science, Homeopathy, and Advanced Applied Holistic Nutrition.

Most certificate programs can be completed in about a year, and they typically consist of 15-20 credit hours. Applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution to qualify for a graduate certificate program.

Before you enroll in an online holistic medicine degree program, be sure to check the school's accreditation status. Accreditation means that a school's academic programs, faculty members, and student services have been reviewed and proven to meet standards of excellence. 

Importantly, all schools we feature across OnlineU are institutionally accredited. 

Aside from being a potential requirement for state licensure, enrollment in an accredited school may also impact your ability to obtain financial aid, transfer credits among schools, and gain acceptance into a graduate program. Some employers require job candidates to hold an accredited degree or certificate. Searchable databases of accredited colleges are available on the and the websites.

In addition to an entire school earning institutional accreditation, individual programs can also be accredited, usually by professional organizations, to ensure the programs provide thorough training. Programmatic accreditation of holistic medicine online programs may be conducted by one of several different independent agencies, depending on the type of program.

For example, the (CNME) is the accrediting body for naturopathic medical programs, and the (ACAOM) reviews acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, integrative medicine, natural medicine, and other related programs.

Perhaps the most important factor in selecting a holistic medicine program is whether it will help you launch the career you have in mind. There are relatively few accredited programs for naturopathic medicine, holistic health, and other types of natural medicine. Each program has unique features and specialized coursework, so thoroughly research the curriculum of each option before enrolling. Also, if you're thinking about an occupation that requires graduate school, be sure to choose a program that will prepare you for advanced study. 

Similarly, you'll need to investigate any licensure requirements in your state. Depending on where you plan to work, you may need a state-issued license or credential to work as a healthcare professional. Among the prerequisites for licensure may be a specific type of degree or certificate from an accredited school.

In addition to these decisions, you'll need to determine if you want to pursue a holistic medicine degree online. Online programs usually offer greater flexibility than traditional programs and may be more affordable. You can generally engage in coursework, class discussions, and assignments at your convenience as long as you meet the required deadlines. However, distance learning is not necessarily right for everyone. If you require more structure, you may prefer on-campus classes. 

Once you've determined the best degree options for your goals, you'll need to apply to the college or colleges of your choice. Admissions requirements and application deadlines vary slightly among schools but are typically the same for on-campus and online learners. 

You will probably be asked to submit your official high school or GED transcripts along with your online application. Depending on the college's admissions criteria, you may be required to document a GPA of at least 2.5 or possibly higher. Other documents that you may be asked to submit include:

• College entrance exam scores
• A personal essay or statement
• Recommendation letters from teachers, coaches, supervisors, or other mentors
• A list of extracurricular activities, including jobs, team sports, and volunteer activities

Not sure if natural medicine is the right career path for you? Consider becoming a more traditional type of healthcare practitioner by reviewing our list of best online pharmacy degrees.

While holistic medicine and homeopathic medicine have some similarities, there are several distinct . Holistic medicine addresses the whole person, including mind, body, and spirit. It integrates conventional and alternative practices to treat disease and promote health. While homeopathic medicine also focuses on treating the whole person, it only utilizes natural remedies. Unlike holistic medicine, homeopathy doesn't use prescription drugs.

Both holistic and functional medicine seek to improve health and wellness through nutritional therapy, exercise, and natural treatments rather than drugs or surgery, although they don't completely dismiss those options. Holistic medicine uses a variety of therapies — physical, emotional, and spiritual — to promote health and heal an individual as a whole. Functional medicine takes a highly personalized approach to treating underlying causes rather than symptoms. Doctors practicing functional medicine look at a patient's genetics, environment, and history.

Many people who earn degrees in integrative holistic medicine become healthcare practitioners, such as integrated physicians or naturopaths, working directly with patients. Some work as independent consultants running their own practice, while others work in collaborative healthcare facilities that may offer both traditional Western medicine and alternative medicine therapies. Graduates can also become health educators or healthcare policy advisors.

Although you do not need a specific degree to practice some types of holistic medicine, you should acquire some training before going into practice. Most states require candidates to have completed a holistic medicine degree, diploma, or certificate program to obtain a license. Also, you'll have more credibility with your clients if you can assure them of your knowledge.